The views and opinions expressed in this editorial article are those of the author and do not reflect the official policy or position of the Post or Eagle Media. The editorial is intended to stimulate critical thinking and debate on issues of public interest and should be read with an open mind. Readers are encouraged to consider multiple sources of information and to form their own informed opinions.
By: STEVEN HOWE
A little over 250 years ago our country's founding fathers proclaimed in the Declaration of Independence to "mutually pledge to each other our Lives, our Fortunes and our sacred Honor" in defense of their God-given rights.
Earlier in the document they stated, "We hold these truths to be self-evident, that all men are created equal, that they are endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable Rights, that among these are Life, Liberty and the pursuit of Happiness.--That to secure these rights, Governments are instituted among Men, deriving their just powers from the consent of the governed........"
After a long and hard fought victory in the Revolutionary War - our American Revolution, our country was still in its infancy. In 1789 the United States Constitution was new and untried. It created a system of government based on the consent of the governed and shared powers. The Constitution invented the office of the President. George Washington, hero of the American Revolution and of the Constitutional Convention, was elected in 1789 to serve as this nation's first President.
In President George Washington's first inaugural address he stated, "The preservation of the sacred fire of liberty, and the destiny of the Republican model of Government, are justly considered as deeply, perhaps as finally staked, on the experiment entrusted to the hands of the American people."
The founding documents like the Declaration, the Constitution and Washington's first inaugural address define government role and how we as Americans must participate to ensure it's success.
Each generation that has existed since this time in our country's history had to work hard to live up to the founder's vision. Each generation had to fight against other political philosophies and outside influences to maintain what is good and right in defense of a free people. It is often said that "Freedom is not free" - and while many may use that in the context of wartime, it is also true throughout each and everyday. You see, there are many forces within and without that see government different than you and I. Some see government as an opportunity to shift businesses their way or to squeeze out competition - or history shows it has been used to hold down an entire race of people.
For me, it comes back down to the genesis of this country and our founding documents. While we now live in the 21st Century, it does not give us license to ignore the Constitution, our Declaration or other founding documents. We have to fight each and every day to ensure we educate ourselves, our neighbors and our children so the next generation can oppose tyrany and work to secure our God-given rights.
Today, more than ever, 250 years since our country's founding, YOU have a responsibility as a citizen of this great land - and that is to VOTE. You see, each election, whether local, state or federal - you are not simply voting for people, but rather, you are consenting to what kind of government you want!
During my time in office as your State Representative, I've held fast to my oath of office and the founding documents which lay the foundation for us as free people. I have worked hard to advance these founding principles as I vote on legislation and consider matters of public consequence.
Today, I humbly ask for your trust and Vote in the Republican primary for State Representative in House District 71.
I am thankful for all who have supported me with their time, talent and treasure, but most importantly, with their prayers.
Whatever the result in my election, my ultimate prayer is to be obedient to, "thy will be done."
God has a plan for each and every one of us, whatever our station in life. He wants us to trust in Him and be faithful. Whatever the outcome, I am prepared for what is next.
I'd like to wish Jay Vanier, Kansas State Rep. Candidate - House District 71 well has he worked hard and ran a vigorous campaign.
Regardless of the outcome, I pledge to work to support all Republican nominees in the general election in November.
Take care, and remember to Vote - polling locations close at 7pm!
Submitted by Steven K. Howe, Republican Candidate for State Representative, District 71